Solutions for the Dogless

Apartment's too small? Boyfriend's allergic? Perhaps just not down with
de-pooping the backyard? Whatever the reason, if you or someone you
know is simply not ready to become a full-time dog parent, peruse the
following list of alternatives for people looking to cram some dog-time
into an otherwise (sniff) dogless existence.

1. Dog-sit. Got a friend-with-dog? Make his/her day with a homemade
coupon book that offers ten free dog-sits. Later, if you wish to expand
your client roster and turn this into a paying gig, consider
registering with Pet Sitters International, a great resource for
would-be petsitters and those seeking sitting alike. petsit.com

4. Pick up a cuddle buddy from Perfect Petzzz. In lieu of the real
thing, Perfect Petzzz will send you a soft, sleeping, plush pup that
"breathes" like a real dog and comes equipped with a bed, brush,
carrier, tag, and adoption certificate. Basically a four-legged Cabbage
Patch Doll, come to think of it. perfectpetzzz.com

5. Become a foster parent. There are countless dogs out there looking for a warm place to temporarily call home. fosterdogs.com

6. Get woken up by slobbery kisses every time you fall asleep on your
keyboard with the help of My Monitor Pets' "licking" screen savers. For
as little as $4.99, you can choose from Cooper, Punky, or Dudley,
amongst other kissing canines. You can even order them up as animated
screensavers for your cell. mymonitorpets.com

7. Buy a Nintendog. From the genius crew who brought you Mario and
Luigi, comes the ultimate real-pet substitute: a digital dog that you
can teach tricks, feed, bathe, neglect (if you're not careful),
socialize, and LOVE. Great for parents looking to give their kids a
petcare preview. nintendogs.com